Jay Park Defends Lil Pump, Doesn’t Think He’s Racist

A series of tweets by hip-hop and K-pop star Jay Park have generated some controversy online for taking a more positivistic stance on Lil Pump’s racist lyrics.

On December 18, Jay Park first wrote: “lil pump said Ching Chong lol” with three facepalm emojis. The tweet was in reference to a teaser video the Florida rapper released with the lyrics: “Smokin’ on dope / They call me Yao Ming ’cause my eyes real low (ching chong)”

In response, Pump caught flack from numerous Asian figures, including Awkwafina and China Mac, for using language that has historically been perceived as racially insensitive, including the epithet “ching chong.”

Park then tweeted more sympathetically towards Pump, espousing that he did not believe the rapper was racist but “just insensitive.”

I dont think he racist. Was just insensitive but he young. Gotta give ppl space to grow and learn. Plus i think he removed it lol but still ‍♂️ lol

Park’s fans responded in numerous ways, including some who perceived his tweet as a lack of responsibility on his part. One user named @mysgmuse replied to Park, asking, “Why can’t you use your voice and platform to actually speak up on these issues?”

Why can’t you use your voice and platform to actually speak up on these issues. Stop making excuses for these people who don’t respect your culture.

A seemingly affected Park sought to clarify that he was not condoning Lil Pump’s actions, responding to @mysgmuse’s tweets in particular.

I dont make excuses for nobody~ Im just not the person to say “fuck him” . I give human beings the benefit of the doubt till i feel other wise. And please watch how ur talkin to someone who takes on scrutiny for being in asian specially in hip hop on a daily basis https://t.co/nuzDFoN3LC

I’ll take it how I take it. Also in no way Do i condone disrespect against me or my ppl. But im grown. If a sit down serious conversation was possible im down. But for not i just laugh at it cause me gettin mad and cussing doesnt do shit but add more hate.